But the crowds still turned out and there were lots of attractions, including a bouncy castle, guess the number of balloons in a car and the final three numbers on a £10 note, refreshments and stalls, all resulting in a £1,619 boost for church funds. The garden party was opened by the new head at Sabden Primary School, Mrs Lisa Stinchon. There was also a grand draw with £75 and £50 first prizes. Churchwarden Mr Bernard Parfitt said it was a great result and the money raised was slightly up on last year.

The following day the sun shone and the wind dropped for the annual procession of witness around the village led by the new queen and her attendants, uniformed organisations, the ladies’ group and members of the congregation, all marching to the sounds of Earby Brass Band. Also heading the procession were the crucifer Mr Jack Pearson carrying the cross, the Rev. Andrew Whitehead, curate of St Mary’s Church in Clitheroe, and churchwardens Mr Parfitt and Mr Colin Hartley. See the video on our website at clitheroetoday